What Is A Trailer Bearing Kit? How To Pick The Right Size

You’ve planned the trip, loaded the boat, and hooked up the trailer—only to find the wheels won’t spin freely, or worse, there’s that ominous rumble coming from the hub. For anyone who tows a trailer—whether it’s for a weekend adventure, an annual fishing mission, or hauling gear for work—trailer wheel bearings can make or break the journey. Overlooked until there’s trouble, these small components are as crucial as the tyres beneath them, quietly carrying the load and ensuring every kilometre is travelled safely.

A trailer bearing kit is more than a collection of parts; it’s your insurance against breakdowns and costly repairs, providing everything you need to keep your trailer running smoothly. But with so many sizes, ratings, and kit types available in New Zealand, choosing the right kit can be a challenge—especially when your plans depend on getting it right the first time.

In this guide, you’ll discover what goes into a trailer bearing kit, why quality matters for safety and legal compliance, and how to accurately pick the right size for your trailer. We’ll cover essential installation tips, maintenance routines, and where to find reliable kits locally—so you can set off with confidence, knowing your trailer is ready for the road ahead.

Understanding Trailer Bearing Kits and Their Components

When you overhaul a wheel hub, it’s more than just swapping out old grease. A trailer bearing kit brings together every component needed to restore smooth rotation and reliable load support. Instead of hunting down individual parts, manufacturers bundle bearings, races, seals and any small hardware so that you have a complete solution in one box.

A typical trailer bearing kit will include:

• Inner bearing (cone)
• Outer bearing (cup)
• Bearing race(s)
• Grease seal
• Thrust washer
• Castle nut
• Cotter pin (split pin)
• Dust cap

This all-in-one approach saves time, ensures compatibility and reduces the risk of overlooking a critical piece during reassembly.

Definition and Purpose of a Bearing Kit

A bearing kit supplies every part required to rebuild a single wheel hub after removing worn components. Its primary purpose is to:

• Reduce friction between the wheel and axle
• Support both radial and axial loads
• Keep contaminants like water, dirt and salt out of the bearing assembly

By replacing bearings and seals as a matched set, you maintain the correct tolerances and clearances, preventing premature wear and potential failures on the road.

Core Components: Bearings, Races, Seals

Inner and outer bearings (often called cones and cups) are machined from high-grade, heat-treated steel. The cones ride on rollers that transfer the load, while cups are fixed into the hub’s bore as the outer raceways. Both parts need precise surface finishes to minimise friction and handle heavy loads.

Seals are just as critical. They sit behind the bearing assembly and trap grease around the rollers, keeping moisture and debris at bay. You’ll encounter lip seals—common in general-purpose kits—and marine-grade seals, which employ corrosion-resistant materials for water-exposed trailers.

Optional Hardware: Washers, Cotter Pins, Seal Retainers

Beyond bearings and seals, many kits include small but essential fittings:

• Thrust washers: provide a smooth surface for the bearing face
• Seal retainers: clip or press into the hub to hold the seal in place
• Castle nuts: lock the bearing preload
• Cotter pins: secure the castle nut and prevent loosening

Having these components on hand ensures a proper rebuild. Skipping even a single cotter pin or seal retainer can compromise the integrity of the hub assembly and lead to costly roadside breakdowns.

Why a Quality Trailer Bearing Kit Is Essential for Safe Towing

Top-grade bearing kit not only keeps your trailer tracking straight but also safeguards against heat build-up and contamination. Swap in subpar bearings and you’re risking more than just a noisy hub — you’re jeopardising safety, reliability and your weekend plans.

Choosing a quality kit means you get precisely machined bearings, matched races and seals designed to trap grease where it belongs. That attention to detail pays dividends when you’re towing heavy loads over long distances or winding roads.

Role of Bearings in Load Distribution

Bearings do more than let wheels spin – they shoulder the brunt of your trailer’s mass. Each bearing assembly must handle radial loads (downward force from the trailer’s payload) and axial loads (sideways thrust during cornering). By distributing stress evenly, premium bearings keep rollers aligned, reduce vibration and maintain the correct clearance between cone and cup.

With properly fitted races and the right preload, you’ll avoid uneven wear and hot spots. This smooth load transfer translates into steadier towing and longer component life.

Risks of Worn or Inferior Bearings

Skimping on bearing quality or riding out worn parts invites a catalogue of problems:

• Overheating: Excess friction turns grease into a thin film, eventually causing metal-to-metal contact.
• Grease loss: Poor seals allow lubricant to escape, leaving bearings exposed to dirt and moisture.
• Corrosion: Water ingress can pit races and rollers, leading to rough operation.
• Uneven wear: Mismatched or low-grade bearings develop high-stress zones that fail prematurely.

These issues not only shorten bearing life but can damage your hub, spindle and axle housing — with repair bills that quickly eclipse any savings from cheap parts.

Real-World Implications of Bearing Failure

Imagine towing your boat to the Bay of Plenty when a faint rumble turns into a wobble so violent the trailer starts to sway. Before you know it, the bearing has seized and the wheel is dragging, making steering nearly impossible. You end up stranded on the roadside, waiting for a tow while your weekend adventure slips away.

Failing bearings can spark:

• Sudden trailer sway, putting stress on your tow vehicle’s suspension
• Bearing seizure, risking jack-knifing under heavy braking
• Complete wheel detachment, creating a serious hazard for you and other motorists

Investing in a reputable bearing kit eliminates these nightmares. High-grade steel, precise engineering and reliable seals keep everything turning smoothly — so you can focus on the journey, not the maintenance.

Legal and Safety Standards for Trailer Bearings in New Zealand

Maintaining your trailer bearings isn’t just good practice—it’s a legal requirement under the Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) regulations. Regular inspections and servicing ensure you meet Warrant of Fitness (WoF) standards, reduce the risk of roadside breakdowns and avoid potential fines. NZTA field data consistently flags wheel bearing defects as one of the most common causes of trailer failures at WoF, underlining the need for routine checks.

NZTA Requirements for Trailer Maintenance

NZTA’s Safe Loading and Towing Guide lays out the essentials:

• Routine inspection of wheel bearings, seals and hubs during WoF and maintenance checks
• Use of OEM-specification parts and recommended greases to preserve compliance
• Immediate replacement of any component showing wear, corrosion or excessive play

Following these guidelines not only keeps you on the right side of the law but also helps prevent costly breakdowns.

Warrant of Fitness and Wheel Bearing Checks

When a trailer comes in for its WoF, inspectors carry out a quick yet thorough bearing check:

1. Jack the trailer so the tyre is clear of the ground
2. Spin the wheel by hand, noting any grinding or roughness
3. Grip the tyre at 12 and 6 o’clock and rock it to detect lateral play
4. Remove dust caps when present to inspect grease colour and look for contaminants

Catching early signs—dry grease, pitting on the raceway or abnormal end-play—lets you replace bearings before they fail on the road.

Recommended Inspection Intervals

A proactive schedule keeps bearings healthy and your trailer roadworthy:

• Before each major trip, especially after long storage
• At least once every 12 months, regardless of distance travelled
• Whenever you notice unusual noise, vibration or heat around the hub

Trailers exposed to water, salt or dust may warrant checks every six months to ward off corrosion and contamination.

How to Determine the Correct Bearing Kit Size for Your Trailer

Picking the right bearing kit is crucial—installing a mismatched set can lead to overheating, noise or even wheel failure. Fortunately, most trailers let you identify the correct size through two reliable methods: reading the reference numbers stamped on the bearings themselves or measuring the components directly. Once you have those details, cross-reference them against your hub and spindle specifications to find a kit that fits perfectly.

Reading Reference Numbers on Bearings

The quickest way to confirm which bearings you need is by inspecting the parts you’re replacing. Follow these steps:

1. Safely jack up the trailer and remove the wheel and dust cap.
2. Slide out the inner bearing (cone) and look for stamped numbers—you’ll typically see a sequence like LM67048 or 44642/10.
3. Pull out the outer bearing (cup) and check the rim for its matching code.
4. Note both inner and outer codes, along with any seal markings.

If the numbers are faint or corroded, clean the bearing with a rag and solvent to reveal the imprint. As a backup, you can refer to the TrailersRus guide for troubleshooting stamped references and decoding common bearing part numbers.

Measuring Bearing Dimensions Manually

When reference numbers aren’t legible, accurate measurements become essential. You’ll need a set of digital callipers or a micrometer and a ruler. Measure the following:

• Inner diameter (ID): the bore of the cone.
• Outer diameter (OD): the outside of the cup.
• Width: the thickness of the bearing (cone) and the cup.

Record each dimension to the nearest 0.1 mm. With these measurements in hand, consult a bearing cross-reference chart—often available from kit manufacturers or suppliers like Action Outdoors—to match your sizes to a standard kit.

Cross-Referencing Hub and Spindle Specifications

Bear in mind that hub model and spindle taper also determine which kit you need. Many hubs have a model number stamped on the flange; spindles sometimes carry a diameter or taper code. Once you know your hub and spindle specs, use a table like this to narrow down your options:

If your hub model isn’t listed, measure its key dimensions or check the spindle code, then reach out to our team at Action Outdoors. We’ll help you cross-check those figures against our stock of Trojan, NSK and other quality kits to get your trailer back on the road without a hitch.

Common Types of Trailer Bearing Kits and Load Ratings

Trailer bearing kits come in various load ratings, materials and seal types to suit different trailer applications. From light‐duty campers to heavy boat trailers and saltwater‐tested marine rigs, choosing a kit with the right capacity and environmental protection is essential for reliability. Below, we outline the most popular categories, highlight their key features and provide direct links to reputable suppliers in New Zealand.

Each category focuses on a specific load rating—ranging from the ubiquitous 1500 kg standard kits up to specialised marine options—and includes details on the bearings, races, seals and any additional hardware packed within. Review the descriptions and follow the links to find a kit that matches your trailer’s axle capacity and operating conditions.

1500kg Kits for Standard Trailers

1500 kg kits are the workhorses of the trailer world, ideal for small boat trailers, single‐axle utility trailers and light campers. A typical 1500 kg kit from Ultra Trailers includes:

• Inner bearing (LM67048)
• Outer bearing (LM11949)
• Bearing cups to match the cones
• Grease seal and retainer
• Castle nut and cotter pin

Manufactured to fit popular hubs such as Trojan 1500 kg and Dexter counterparts, these kits balance affordability with durable, heat‐treated steel bearings. They provide corrosion resistance for general use and come with seals that hold grease in place under normal road conditions.

Learn more: Ultra Trailers 1500 kg bearing kit

1750kg Kits for Heavier Applications

For trailers carrying heavier loads—think larger boats, machinery haulers or tandem‐axle setups—a 1750 kg rating offers the next step up. Marine Deals supplies a 1750 kg kit designed for durability under extra weight, featuring:

• High‐grade steel inner (e.g. 68149/10) and outer bearings (e.g. 12749/10)
• Precision‐milled cups for tight tolerances
• Robust lip seals to guard against dust and grit

These kits are optimised for larger hubs and require minimal break‐in time. The heavier bearing rollers excel at distributing radial and axial loads, making them perfect for boat trailers that see both road travel and launch‐ramp exposure.

Learn more: Marine Deals 1750 kg bearing kits

NSK Bearing Kit 1500kg Features

NSK’s 1500 kg kit, available through Best Trailers, comes with Japanese‐made bearings renowned for precision and longevity. The overhaul kit includes:

• Cone (LM11949) and cup (LM11910)
• Cone (LM67048) and cup (LM67010)
• Neoprene grease seal suitable for varied temperatures

Each component undergoes strict quality control to ensure consistent bore size and roller contact. The NSK kit’s tighter tolerances reduce vibration and heat build‐up, extending service intervals—ideal for trailers that rack up kilometres around New Zealand.

Learn more: NSK Bearing Kit 1500 kg

Marine-Specific Kits with Enhanced Seals

Trailers regularly exposed to saltwater demand seals that resist corrosion and withstand high‐pressure wash-downs. Repco’s marine bearing kit (WBK6015) features:

• Stainless‐alloy seal plates
• Heavy‐duty lip seals with a twin‐labyrinth design
• Standard inner and outer bearings (LM67048 / LM11949)

Backed by a manufacturer’s warranty against seal failure, these kits are built to keep water and contaminants out—even after repeated immersion. They’re the go-to choice for coastal boat owners and commercial operators who need long‐term protection.

Learn more: Repco Marine Wheel Bearing Kit

Versatile Bearing Kits for Miscellaneous Trailers

For trailers that don’t fit a standard mould—like custom‐build machinery trailers, agricultural gear or occasional tow rigs—a versatile kit range is invaluable. TWL NZ offers bearing kits covering sizes from 30210/30207 up to 25580/15123, complete with:

• Multi‐size cone and cup options in one package
• Choice of nitrile or marine‐grade seals
• Optional thrust washers and retainers

This flexible approach means you can carry fewer spare parts but still service a variety of hub models. With multiple seal types, these kits adapt to dry farm tracks, gravel roads and occasional water crossings.

Learn more: TWL NZ Versatile Bearing Kits

Choosing the Right Grease for Your Trailer Bearing Kit

Selecting the ideal grease for your trailer bearings is as critical as choosing the correct kit size. Grease consistency dictates how well it stays in place, how it reacts to temperature changes and how effectively it protects bearings from wear, moisture and contaminants. Using the wrong grade can lead to overheating, sludge build-up or insufficient lubrication—problems that shorten bearing life and compromise towing safety.

Overview of NLGI Grease Grades and Testing

Grease consistency is measured by the National Lubricating Grease Institute (NLGI) on a scale from 000 (semi-fluid) to 6 (solid block). This rating reflects penetration, determined by a standard test where a defined weight sinks into the grease. The deeper it sinks, the softer the grease. Semi-fluid greases (000–1) suit centralised lubrication systems, while firmer greases (3–6) are reserved for heavy machinery with minimal heat. For more detail, see the Fuchs guide on NLGI ratings.

Why NLGI Grade 2 Is Recommended

NLGI Grade 2 hits the sweet spot for most trailer wheel bearings. Think of it as having the consistency of room-temperature butter—soft enough to flow into bearing rollers yet firm enough to stay put under centrifugal force. It maintains viscosity across a broad temperature range, resists water wash-out and provides reliable film strength during both highway speeds and slow, winding routes.

Impact of Overgreasing and Undergreasing

Both too much and too little grease spell trouble:

• Overgreasing can cause churning: excess grease heats up and aerates, leading to grease breakdown and bearing starvation.
• Undergreasing leaves metal surfaces exposed, increasing friction, heat and the risk of premature wear.
• Either extreme can introduce moisture or contaminants, as seals struggle to contain grease or allow debris into the hub.

Striking the right balance ensures bearings remain fully lubricated without generating excess heat or pressure.

Best Practices for Lubrication

Follow these steps for a clean and effective bearing pack:

1. Clean bearings, races and seals with solvent and wipe dry.
2. Pack the bearing cone by force-feeding grease into the rollers—use a bearing packer or your thumb to ensure no dry spots remain.
3. Insert the packed bearing into the race, then seat the seal over the hub with light taps.
4. Fill the hub chamber about two-thirds full of fresh grease before sliding the second bearing in.
5. Reinstall the spindle nut, adjust preload to manufacturer specs and secure with a cotter pin.
6. Wipe away excess grease protruding from the dust cap to avoid trapping heat.

Proper lubrication extends bearing life, enhances performance and keeps your trailer rolling smoothly, trip after trip.

Step-by-Step Guide to Installing a Trailer Bearing Kit

Installing a new bearing kit might seem daunting, but with the right tools and a systematic approach, you’ll have your trailer back on the road in no time. Follow the steps below and take care at each stage to ensure a safe, long-lasting rebuild.

Necessary Tools and Safety Equipment

Before you begin, gather the following tools and PPE:

• Jack and sturdy jack stands
• Wheel chocks and wheel brace
• Socket set (including axle nut socket)
• Torque wrench (metric or dual-scale)
• Bearing packer or disposable gloves
• Digital callipers (optional, for measurement)
• Flat-head screwdriver or seal driver
• Rubber mallet or dead-blow hammer
• Wire brush and degreaser
• Clean rags and lint-free cloth
• Safety glasses and nitrile gloves

Double-check that the trailer is on firm, level ground. Always block the opposite wheel and wear eye protection when handling grease and metal parts.

Removing the Wheel and Old Bearings

1. Chock the trailer’s opposite wheel and loosen the wheel nuts while the tyre is on the ground.
2. Jack up the trailer until the wheel clears the ground, then place jack stands under the axle.
3. Fully remove the wheel nuts and wheel.
4. Pry off the dust cap using a flat-head screwdriver.
5. Slide out the cotter pin and castle nut, keeping them handy if they’re in good condition.
6. Gently pull off the washer and outer bearing (cup).
7. Tilt the hub to spill out old grease, then remove the inner bearing (cone) and seal.

Store reusable hardware separately and discard any damaged components.

Inspecting the Hub, Spindle, and Races

Once the hub is off, give everything a thorough check:

• Spindle: Inspect for nicks, corrosion or wear on the taper. A clean, smooth surface is vital for correct bearing preload.
• Hub bore: Run a wire brush lightly around the race seat to remove old grease and rust.
• Races (cups): If you’re reusing races, look for pitting or discolouration. Replace any race that shows a rough surface.
• Seal bore: Ensure the recess for the new seal is clean, smooth and free of burrs.

If any part shows deep scoring or heat-induced discolouration, it’s safer to replace it than risk a premature failure.

Installing New Bearings and Seals

1. Press in new races: Using a bearing race driver or a suitably sized socket, tap the races squarely into the hub bore. Ensure they seat fully and evenly.
2. Pack the bearings: Force grease into the bearing rollers until it oozes out between each roller. A bearing packer makes this quick; otherwise, use your gloved hand.
3. Install the inner bearing: Slide the packed cone into the hub, followed by a fresh seal. Tap the seal flush with the hub using a rubber mallet.
4. Fill the hub: Pour grease into the hub chamber until it’s two-thirds full—this leaves room for the second bearing and prevents overheating.
5. Fit the outer bearing: Insert the second packed cone, washer and castle nut onto the spindle. Tighten the nut finger-tight.

Take care to keep dirt out of the freshly greased assembly throughout this process.

Reassembly and Torque Specifications

With the bearings and seals in place, finish the assembly:

1. While spinning the wheel, tighten the castle nut to achieve the correct preload—this seats the bearings without binding.
2. Back off the nut until you can insert the cotter pin through the nut and spindle hole.
3. Secure the cotter pin and bend its ends to lock the nut.
4. Refit the dust cap, tapping it gently until fully seated.
5. Mount the wheel, hand-tighten the wheel nuts, lower the trailer and torque the wheel nuts to the manufacturer’s spec.

Recommended spindle nut torque values:

Always cross-check with your trailer or bearing kit’s technical sheet—over- or under-torquing affects bearing life. Once completed, give the wheel a final spin and rock test to confirm everything runs smoothly and without play.

Recommended Maintenance and Troubleshooting Tips

Maintaining trailer bearings may seem like extra work, but a few simple checks and timely repairs can make the difference between a smooth tow and an unexpected roadside break. Below is a straightforward maintenance plan, key warning signs to watch out for and solutions to common issues you may encounter.

When and How to Repack Bearings

Regular grease replenishment is essential. As a rule of thumb, repack bearings:

• At least once every 12,000 km or annually, whichever comes first
• Before any extended trip, especially after long storage or heavy use
• After exposure to water, mud or dusty environments

For a hands-on walkthrough, follow Dexter Group’s detailed guide on manually repacking bearings. Proper repacking ensures the rollers stay fully coated in fresh grease, preventing metal-on-metal contact and premature wear.

Identifying Signs of Bearing Failure

Early detection saves both time and money. Keep an eye (and ear) out for these tell-tale warning signs:

• Excessive heat: touch the hub after a short run; a hot hub often points to inadequate lubrication or overtightened bearings
• Unusual vibration or wobble: any rumble or play when rotating the wheel by hand indicates worn rollers or loose components
• Discoloured grease: dark, burnt-smelling grease suggests overheating; green or rusty specks signal water ingress
• Grease leakage: grease seeping past the seal or pooling around the hub shows seal failure and contamination risk

Spotting these symptoms means it’s time to pull the hub, inspect components and replace worn parts before complete failure.

Preventive Maintenance Checklist

Keeping bearings in top shape is all about consistency. Add these tasks to your routine:

• Clean and inspect dust caps and seals for cracks or distortion
• Check and tighten castle nuts to the correct torque setting
• Wipe away old grease and contaminants from around the hub bore
• Inspect grease colour and consistency through the seal opening
• Rotate hubs by hand monthly if the trailer is in long-term storage

A quick check in the driveway can prevent hours on the roadside later.

Addressing Common Installation Issues

Even after a careful rebuild, minor hiccups can happen. Here are fixes for typical post-installation gremlins:

• Misalignment noise: if the hub hums or chirps, recheck preload. Too much preload causes binding; too little lets rollers skid
• Seal leaks: often caused by a damaged bore or improper seal seating. Clean the seal recess, then press the seal evenly with a suitable driver or socket
• Bearing chatter: vibration at speed can mean the grease is over-packed. Reduce the quantity slightly so bearings spin freely with correct preload
• Spindle scoring: small grooves on the spindle can shred seals. Lightly polish the taper with fine Scotch-Brite, or replace the spindle if damage is deep

By tracking these issues and applying targeted remedies, you’ll extend the life of your bearings and sharpen your DIY skills along the way.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Selecting and Installing Bearings

Even the best trailer bearing kit is only as good as the choices you make during selection and installation. A minor oversight—whether it’s picking the wrong part or misapplying grease—can turn a routine maintenance job into a costly roadside emergency. Below are four of the most frequent errors and simple steps to sidestep them.

Choosing Incorrect Size or Load Rating

One of the quickest ways to invite trouble is installing bearings that don’t match your trailer’s specifications. Undersized bearings can’t carry the weight, leading to overheating and premature wear; oversized bearings won’t seat properly and may damage the hub or spindle. Always verify both inner and outer bearing codes (stamped on the cone and cup) or take accurate measurements of inner diameter, outer diameter and width. Then cross-reference these figures against your hub model and axle rating—never guess based on appearance alone.

Using the Wrong Grease Consistency

Grease isn’t one-size-fits-all. Too soft (low NLGI grade) and the lubricant will spin out under centrifugal force. Too stiff (high NLGI grade) and it won’t flow into the rollers, leaving pockets unprotected. For trailer bearings, an NLGI Grade 2 is typically ideal: it holds up under heat yet still penetrates the assembly. Before packing, confirm the kit manufacturer’s recommendation and resist the temptation to use whatever grease is on the shelf.

Overtightening or Undertightening Bearings

Proper preload is the sweet spot between binding and slop. Overtightening the castle nut squeezes the rollers, generates heat and accelerates wear. Undertightening leaves excessive end-play, causing vibration, uneven loading and metal fatigue. Use a calibrated torque wrench and follow the torque values provided for your kit—typically 60–80 Nm for 1500 kg kits and 80–100 Nm for 1750 kg kits—and always confirm that the bearing spins smoothly with minimal side-to-side movement before securing the cotter pin.

Ignoring Environmental Factors

Not all trailers see the same conditions. Marine trailers demand corrosion-resistant seals and regular wash-downs, while off-road or agricultural trailers require robust dust seals to keep grit out. Ignoring your operating environment can lead to water intrusion, seal failure or abrasive contamination. Choose marine-grade seals for coastal use, install bearing buddies or vented caps in harsh terrain, and increase inspection frequency whenever your trailer spends time in water, mud or fine dust.

Where to Source Quality Trailer Bearing Kits in New Zealand

Whether you prefer browsing online at midnight or picking up parts between jobs at a local store, choosing the right supplier is just as important as selecting the correct kit. The following pointers will help you weigh the pros and cons of different purchasing channels, identify what makes a supplier trustworthy, and compare some of the top names serving Kiwi trailer owners.

Online Retailers vs Physical Stores

Online shopping offers convenience and a broader product range—ideal if you know your bearing codes and want to compare specifications from the comfort of home. You’ll often find extensive product filters, customer reviews and overnight shipping options. However, shipping costs and delivery lead times can catch you out if a trip is just days away.

By contrast, a physical store lets you talk face-to-face with experienced staff, inspect parts on the shelf and walk out with what you need straight away. You avoid freight fees, gain immediate advice on fitment and can even swap items on the spot if something doesn’t match. The trade-off? Stock levels vary, so smaller outlets might not carry every load rating or seal type.

Criteria for Reputable Suppliers

When you’re investing in a safety-critical component, look for these hallmarks of quality:

• Brand partnerships: Official stocking of respected names such as Trojan, NSK or Dexter ensures genuine parts.
• Local expertise: Staff who understand NZ trailers, WoF requirements and environmental stresses deliver sound advice.
• Warranty and returns: Flexible policies on damaged or incorrect kits protect you from unexpected costs.
• Product range and availability: A supplier with a wide selection of load ratings, seal options and optional hardware means you’re less likely to make a second trip.
• Knowledge resources: Clear spec sheets, cross-reference guides or how-to videos indicate a commitment to customer support.

Comparing Top New Zealand Suppliers

• Supercheap Auto: Wide network of stores nationwide, competitive pricing and regular specials on trailer accessories.
• The Trailer Shop: Specialist hub and bearing outlet with a focus on trailer-specific parts, offering free technical support via phone.
• Trojan.co.nz: Direct access to Trojan Australasia’s range; ideal for heavy-duty and commercial trailers but shipping from a central warehouse may add lead time.
• Action Outdoors: A one-stop shop in Auckland and online at actionoutdoors.kiwi. They stock Trojan, NSK and marine-grade kits, plus NZ-made Victory Knives; check out their 2500kg low-ride tandem trailer kit and 2250kg tandem axle braked trailer kit, and their knowledgeable team can help you match the right kit, right when you need it.

No matter which channel you choose, focusing on genuine brands, local support and solid warranty terms will save you downtime and ensure your trailer bearings give you many trouble-free trips down the road.

Pro Tips for Extending the Lifespan of Your Trailer Bearings

Even when you’ve ticked all the boxes on lubricant choice and installation technique, a few extra steps can prolong bearing life by years. The following best practices are geared toward seasoned DIYers and professionals who want every last drop of performance from their trailer’s bearing assembly. Small, consistent actions—whether it’s watching grease condition or protecting against harsh environments—add up to fewer roadside hassles and lower long-term maintenance costs.

Ideal Lubrication Schedules and Techniques

Maintaining the right grease film is central to bearing health. For most trailers, plan to repack bearings every 12,000 km or at least once a year—whichever comes first. Heavy-use scenarios, like commercial haulage or frequent launching at boat ramps, may warrant topping up grease every 6,000 km. When you pack bearings, force grease into the roller clusters until it oozes from between each roller, then fill the hub housing about two-thirds full. That balance keeps rollers fully coated without causing excess churning or overheating.

Regular Inspection Routines

A quick lookover can pick up issues long before they blossom into failures. Before every trip, spin each wheel by hand to feel for roughness or binding. During seasonal deep inspections—spring and autumn are ideal—remove dust caps to inspect grease colour and consistency. Dark, burnt-smelling grease or rusty flecks are red flags. While you’re there, check castle nuts and wheel-stud torque; loose fasteners shift loads onto bearings and accelerate wear.

Protective Measures in Marine and Dusty Environments

Trailers that spend time in saltwater or on farm tracks demand extra defence. Marine seals made from nitrile rubber or stainless-alloy retainers resist corrosion far better than generic lip seals. Fitting bearing buddies or vented caps creates a small grease reservoir outside the hub, preventing water ingress and letting you add grease without stripping the assembly. In dusty conditions, labyrinth seals or simple dust covers keep grit from grinding away precious lubricant.

Proper Storage and Off-Season Care

How you leave your trailer between jobs or through winter can affect bearing longevity. Park on a hard, level surface to prevent water pooling around hubs. If you know the trailer will rest for a month or more, apply a light coat of waterproof grease around the seal lip to fend off moisture. Slip on hub covers—or even a snug old sock—for a quick barrier against dust. And when service time returns, rotate the hubs by hand to redistribute lubricant and spot-check for contaminants.

These pro tips form the keystone of a comprehensive bearing maintenance strategy. By staying vigilant and tailoring care routines to your trailer’s environment, you’ll extend the life of every kit you fit—and keep your tow confidently rolling for seasons to come.

Keeping Your Trailer Running Smoothly

At its core, a trouble-free trailer comes down to three pillars: choosing the right bearing kit, fitting it correctly and giving it the attention it needs. Start by matching your axle’s load rating and hub type to a quality kit—whether it’s a standard 1500 kg Trojan set, a marine-grade seal configuration or a versatile TWL NZ offering. The right components mean you’ll avoid heat build-up, uneven wear and costly breakdowns.

Proper installation cements that reliability. Use a calibrated torque wrench, follow preload specifications and pack your bearings with NLGI 2 grease to ensure each roller stays coated. Don’t rush the race-seating or seal-driving steps: meticulous work here keeps contaminants out and grease in. A quick spin test and play check before you hit the road gives extra peace of mind.

Maintenance isn’t optional. A simple schedule—inspect before every trip, repack annually (or every 12 000 km) and swap seals or bearings at the first sign of wear—will double or even triple the life of your hub assembly. Keep an eye on grease colour, listen for any rumble when you rotate wheels by hand and replace any suspect parts before they fail.

By taking these steps, you’ll enjoy safer towing, fewer roadside hassles and a longer lifespan for your trailer’s wheel assembly. Ready to gear up? Explore our range of genuine trailer bearing kits at Action Outdoors and talk to our experts if you need help matching the perfect set for your trailer.